Remembering to take your allergy medication daily at prescribed intervals can be challenging if you are like many Americans with busy, hectic schedules. Forty to fifty percent of Americans don’t take their medications as prescribed. With allergies, this means less than perfect management of symptoms.

“Do you remember if I took my allergy pill?” That’s a question I hear from my hubby on a regular basis during allergy season. Typically, he hasn’t taken his medication as prescribed. He also waits until allergies are in full bloom before beginning to take antihistamines. The result: his allergies are always out of control.

If you are like my husband, you may need some strategies to help you to remember to take your medication as keeping the dose constant will better relieve symptoms. My husband purchases multiple bottles of his over-the-counter antihistamines and keeps them wherever he might be---in the car, in the office, on his bike, etc. Another tip is to begin taking allergy pills before allergy season begins as it takes five to seven days for the medication to build up in your system.

Try using technology to remind you

•Purchase a pill bottle with an electronic timer cap. You set the alarm for your next scheduled dose and it will beep in your pocket or purse. The device costs about $17 and can be programmed for up to 24 alarms per day.
•Set the alarm on your cell phone, wristwatch or computer to go off at a given time.
•Try an automated reminder service from your pharmacy or doctor.

Other strategies

•Develop rituals for taking your medication. Take your pills with meals or to coincide with other everyday activities.
•Put your medication by your toothbrush.
•If going to work, put your medication in your lunch container the night before.


Other reminders

•Have someone send you a text message reminder.
•Have your computer send a daily e-mail.
•Tape notes up wherever you might see them.
•Use a whiteboard to keep track of your medication schedule.
•Use a calendar to help track your medications.